THE Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA) on Thursday said that legitimate reclamation projects do not worsen flooding, in response to statements by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) claiming such activities could obstruct waterways and increase flood risks in Manila Bay. In a statement, the PRA said flooding concerns linked to reclamation usually stem from unauthorized projects arising from improperly issued or misused Foreshore Lease Agreements and Miscellaneous Lease Agreements, rather than from projects that have undergone the agency’s rigorous approval process. “All authorized reclamation projects undergo extensive technical evaluation, including hydrodynamic modeling and flooding studies, to ensure they do not obstruct natural waterways or aggravate flooding conditions,” the PRA said. The agency added that approved projects are also required to secure environmental and legal clearances, including an Environmental Compliance Certificate from the Environmental Management Bureau and an Area Clearance from the DENR Secretary. The clarification came after DENR officials, speaking at the recent Manila Bay Reclamation Convergence Conversation forum, warned that reclamation could block water flow and make surrounding areas more prone to flooding — a position that drew applause from environmental groups, church organizations, and civil society advocates. The PRA emphasized that specific reclamation projects cited by critics, both located within the municipal waters of Pasay City, have been independently studied and found not to be responsible for flooding or the accumulation of marine garbage. The agency noted that garbage pollution is primarily a solid waste management issue under Republic Act 9003 and should not be attributed to properly approved reclamation projects. The PRA said it remains committed to science-based, environmentally responsible, and transparent reclamation practices while continuing coordination with relevant government agencies and local government units to promote sustainable coastal development.